Global Development at UEA
Find out more about studying Global Development at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreKey Details
UEA is ranked 1st overall for research quality in Development Studies
Times Higher Education REF 2021Unlock your potential with our cutting-edge MSc Policy, Behaviour and Data for Global Development.
On this dynamic course, you’ll gain the skills needed to influence evidence-based policymaking, leverage data analytics, and harness behavioural insights for real-world impact. Designed to address today’s evolving landscape, this innovative programe responds to the unprecedented growth in data availability and the increasing significance of behavioural sciences.
You’ll be inspired by the growing global impact of behavioural insights across various policy areas, including health, education, the environment, finance, labour, agriculture, gender, and public services. This programme offers a comprehensive approach to data analytics and policymaking, tailored specifically for Global Development.
Here at UEA, you’ll join a distinguished multi-disciplinary faculty, renowned for their expertise in applied quantitative analysis, behavioural development economics, and impact evaluation. This programme is aligned with UEA’s outstanding reputation in global development and policy analysis, demonstrated by its first-place ranking in the most recent UK research assessment (REF 2021).
After graduation, you’ll be well placed to pursue a range of rewarding careers both in and beyond global development. Previous graduates have secured roles at development banks, international charities, government departments, international organisations, research institutes, and consultancy firms. Others have chosen to continue their academic journey through PhD research.
The curriculum is designed to meet the growing industry demand for expertise in behavioural science and data analytics. You’ll engage in discussions and design policies for global development using advanced quantitative methods, building a solid foundation in behavioural analysis, to inform policy formulation. The programme covers the conceptual foundations of behavioural science and applies them to key policy areas such as education, health, finance, agriculture, technology adoption, gender, and government decision-making, using contemporary examples and evidence. You’ll also learn advanced data analysis techniques, including econometrics and machine learning, with practical seminars and workshops using STATA software to enhance your skills in empirical research and data interpretation.
You’ll have the flexibility to tailor the course to your interests and career aspirations by selecting module options from both our school and other UEA departments. For your final project, you can choose to develop your research skills through a dissertation in an area of your choice, or opt for a work placement to apply your skills in a real-world environment. Upon graduation, you’ll be well equipped with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this dynamic field.
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
The course is designed around the following learning outcomes:
You’ll be assessed through a range of methods, including presentations, essays, and either a dissertation or a work placement. The specific assessment formats will vary depending on the optional modules you choose.
Throughout your studies, you’ll receive oral feedback during seminars to help you strengthen your ability to articulate arguments clearly and confidently. You’ll also be encouraged to prepare essay plans or outlines ahead of deadlines and to discuss them with lecturers during office hours or by email.
In most cases, you’ll receive oral and/or written feedback on an initial piece of coursework well before your main assignment is due, giving you the opportunity to refine your work and improve your performance well in advance of the deadline.
Find out more about studying Global Development at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreUpon completing your MSc, you’ll be well equipped with a range of invaluable transferable skills, which means you can pursue a variety of exciting careers both in and beyond global development.
Previous graduates have gone on to work at development banks, international charities, national governments, international organisations, international research organisations, and consultancy companies.
You’ll also be qualified to enter a PhD programme with a view to continuing an academic career both in the UK and overseas.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Social Science preferred, however a good knowledge of statistics is essential.
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Social Science preferred, however a good knowledge of statistics is essential.
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component).
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, our UEA International Study Centre offers a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for this course, you may be able to study the International Pre-Masters programme offered by our partner UEA International Study Centre. This programme guarantees progression to selected Master's degrees if students achieve the appropriate grade. For more details, please click here:
International Pre-Masters in Business, Economics and Social Sciences
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2026/27 are:
UK Students: £11,400
International Students: £23,850
If you choose to study part-time, the fee per annum will be half the annual fee for that year, or a pro-rata fee for the module credit you are taking (only available for Home students).
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form.
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students section of our website.
Policy, Behaviour and Data for Global Development starting September 2026 for 1 year